Fully integrated IP fire and security solutions

Chris Lewis Security Services has recently designed and installed an integrated fire and security system for Windrush Frozen Foods.

As a recognised specialist in IP based security solutions, Chris Lewis Security has ensured the entire building, including shutters on the windows, lighting, heating and ventilation, intruder alarm, access and fire are all inter-linked and fully controllable.

Windrush Frozen Foods is an enterprising catering business that has grown from a GBP500K business to a GBP27m business in just over ten years.

Having previously experienced two break-ins, Windrush's CEO, Robert Arpino, wanted a smart fire and security solution for his new flagship headquarters.

Robert Arpino comments, "We were looking to implement an integrated fire and security system that offers incredible functionality, but we didn't have an unlimited budget".

"Of all the security companies we considered Chris Lewis Security Services offered the greatest flexibility and the willingness and capability to deliver what we wanted".

Key to Windrush's requirements was the ability to ability to automate and integrate its systems.

Windrush's new alarm and fire system is monitored using IP signalling.

This has the benefit of linking both applications without Windrush paying additional monitoring costs.

The building can only be opened if a proximity card is accepted by a hidden card reader.

Further identification is required by a biometric finger print reader.

Once verified the building is opened and the heating, lighting and ventilation is activated.

In the same way, once the shutters have been closed and the building is confirmed as unoccupied, the alarm can be set and the heating, lighting and ventilation are shut off.

This guarantees energy saving - a major plus for today's environmentally aware businesses.

The ground floor of the building contains meeting rooms and demonstration kitchens.

To limit access to their visitors, a networked access control system has been fitted to all internal doors.

As a welcoming feature and for DDA compliance purposes there is an automatic door on the main entrance.

Visitors movements are restricted to the main foyer until they are granted access to the reception area.

The internal access control system also enables Windrush to prevent staff accessing certain areas of the building, such as the server room.

The company is also keen to monitor time and attendance for health and safety purposes.

This is easily achieved using the data logged by their proximity cards when staff enter and exit the building.

Justin Rhodes, IT Director of Chris Lewis Security Services says, "The possibilities of IP technology are endless".

"It is refreshing to see company's utilising the technology to its greatest effect".

Robert Arpino says of his integrated IP solution, "The technology is available, but very few people are actually linking it together".

"It is unusual to find a company like Chris Lewis Security that will go the extra mile to integrate the systems and not shy away from the challenge.

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